THE historical frontage of a Swansea Valley hospital could be preserved, even though the future of the building remains uncertain.

Chiefs at Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board have held informal talks with key members of the community over safeguarding Clydach Hospital's war memorial for the future.

They are currently looking at the future of the hospital site following a decision to move the last remaining services away.

In a statement, an ABM spokeswoman, said: "The Health Board is fully aware of the sensitivities involved, the history of the building and what it means to the people of Clydach; and in particular the war memorial at the hospital.

Informal

"Health Board representatives have already held informal talks with community leaders in Clydach — Councillor Roger Smith, Reverend Lyndon Taylor and retired solicitor Hugh Morgan — about how the building's frontage and war memorial could be safeguarded; and the Rev Father Teyron Williams is also being involved in discussions.

"All parties are keen to preserve this essential part of Clydach's heritage."

The organisation said that following discussions with community leaders agreement had been reached to hold a six-week engagement process from February to collect the views of local people.

"High on the agenda will be safeguarding the historical frontage of the building, including the war memorial, if the hospital does close."

Paul Stauber, director of planning for ABM, at its meeting previously stressed the importance of involving the public in talks over the future of the hospital, built back in 1925, given the financial contribution they had made towards its development.

The hospital has not been home to any beds since 2003 and many of its health services were switched across to Clydach Health Centre, which opened in 2008.

All the services in place since 2008 have already been switched to different locations and others will be moved in the future.

The organisation added: "The Health Board has a duty to use NHS resources as efficiently as possible, which is why we are now considering the hospital's future."

People will be able to have their say between February 20 and March 30.

Information on the events taking place will be held on www.abm.wales.nhs.uk

elizabeth.perkins@swwmedia.co.uk